Important Reminders About Caring For Your Tongue!

Posted May 1, 2019byDr. Bonura

You may spend some serious time and effort keeping your smile safe by caring for your teeth and caring for your gums. However, when it comes to your tongue, this part of your oral health may be something you tend to overlook or forget about. Does it require a whole lot of attention? Nope! This tissue does, however, require some care and, should you notice any changes, you should let our Silver City, NM team know immediately. Not sure where to begin but you’re happy to improve your dental care? Let us help you out!

Prevent Damage With Bruxism Treatment

Just when you thought bruxism could be bad because it damages your teeth and can make TMJ disorder worse, you find out this news: It can damage your tongue, too! While this is not always the case, remember that if you’re grinding and clenching, particularly as you sleep at night, the sides of your tongue may become part of the issue! When tissue is pressed against teeth or just between them, it can become damaged. You don’t want this, of course. So, keep your smile safe by protecting the entirety of your oral health with bruxism treatment, should this disorder affect you.

Clean It With…

Not sure how to clean your tongue? You’re not alone! Many individuals brush and floss every day, while forgetting that it’s important to clean this tissue, too if you want to keep your smile safe. Fortunately, it’s very simple to do. You can move your toothbrush onto your tongue during your usual brushing session, as you sweep debris from the back toward the front. Or, if you’re not entirely thrilled with the way that feels, opt for a tongue scraper (which is actually a very smooth device).

Don’t Ignore Changes

If you feel like your tongue suddenly hurts or aches, you notice a lesion or lump, or any other change occurs, remember to contact us. Like any other part of your mouth, changes require a dental checkup, so we can determine the cause and whether any type of professional treatment is needed. Though you may prefer to just stay home and pretend nothing is happening, we always remind patients: When you see us the moment changes have made themselves known, if a problem exists, it’s in the very early stages! Seeing us during this time makes it easier for any required care to offer successful treatment!

See Us For Tongue Care Tips

Though it may not be the first thing you think about when you are caring for your oral health, remember that your tongue needs protection, too! For help keeping this part of your smile safe, ask for tips during checkups. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Silver Smiles in Silver City, NM, today at (575) 534-3699.